Where are you originally from? I was born and raised in New York City, but with its vibrant Filipino-American culture and tropical weather, Hawai‘i feels more like home. I definitely prefer living (and driving) with aloha now... but if someone cuts me off, my inner yellow cab driver may come out!

What is your current job? Or what did you do before staying at home (if you don’t currently work outside the home)? I never thought I’d end up doing what I do now as a speaker, life coach, and author, but life’s twists and turns have taken me down some pretty interesting paths. I’ve worked as a chef (and even cooked for President Obama!) and spent time working on Wall Street before starting my own business.

What are three fun facts about you?

1. I used to pole dance for fitness. I even had my own pole at home! (Maybe one day I’ll get good enough to make money doing it. )

2. I love scuba diving (though it’s been a few years since my last dive). One of my most unforgettable dives was in the Galápagos, when a school of dolphins surprised us and played alongside our boat after chasing some tuna snacks.

3. I’m a total Scrabble nerd and can’t resist a good word or puzzle game.

What is one of your proudest moments as a mom so far?

I always tell Ollie, “I believe in you,” when she’s trying something challenging. One day, I was teaching her how to climb safely out of her crib and she repeated it back to me.

Hearing her say those words, without even knowing how much they mean, affirmed that the investments I’ve made in her well-being and development are already paying off. In that moment, I needed those words of encouragement more than she could realize.

When did you join FIT4MOM Honolulu?

I first joined FIT4MOM Honolulu sometime in 2023. My cousin in Portland suggested finding a local group while I was pregnant. I had to step away when life got overwhelming, but I rejoined a few months after my divorce finalized. Now, it feels like life has finally come full circle! I am so grateful to be part of the village again.

What is your favorite class to attend? I love Thursday classes at Ala Moana. The beach, the breeze, the short drive… and if I have to do pushups, at least I get a view while I sweat.

Who is your workout buddy and their age?

My workout buddy is Olive (Ollie), who turns 2 this month. She is officially in her “terrific twos” era, which mostly means she is terrific at keeping me humble… and on my toes.

What is your favorite thing about FIT4MOM?

I love that FIT4MOM creates opportunities to celebrate holidays and milestones with other moms and kids around Ollie’s age. Being a single mom with family scattered across the mainland, these moments feel even more meaningful. Most of my local friends either have older kids or no kids at all, so it has been such a gift to bond with other moms who are in the same phase of life. Plus, it’s so sweet to watch Ollie make little friends of her own.

What would you say to a mom that is on the fence about joining FIT4MOM?

Worst case, you’ll get some fresh air and a workout. Best case, you and your baby will find your people. Either way, you’re getting a win… and maybe a nap later.

Share your thoughts on the concept of “it takes a village” – is it important for moms to join a village?

Everyone says it takes a village, but no one talks about what it means to be a villager. As moms, it’s easy to sacrifice ourselves, put our kids first, and give even when we have nothing left.

What’s harder is asking for help, receiving support, or even prioritizing our needs. A lot of us didn’t see that behavior modeled growing up.

Being an active villager is about not just giving to others, but also giving to ourselves. It’s important for us, but it matters even more for our kids - because they’re watching and learning from the example we set.

What is your favorite beverage?

I know it’s boring, but honestly, water is my favorite. Though a crisp, cold Mexican Coke with a hot slice of pepperoni pizza also sounds like heaven.

What is your favorite thing to eat?

It’s hard to pick just one favorite. I’ve cooked a lot of fancy food in my past career as a chef and traveled extensively to experience different cuisines, but nothing hits the spot like a home-cooked meal made with love.

You are given 4 hours of FREE babysitting. What would you do?

I wish I was cool enough to say I’d go skydiving or bungee jumping. Honestly, I’d probably either work like a madwoman or be so exhausted that I waste the whole time doom-scrolling TikTok like a zombie.

What is your ultimate child-free vacation destination?

I’m an older mom, so I got to enjoy a lot of child-free travel in my younger days. Now, I’m really loving the adventure of bringing Ollie with me wherever I go.

Except on my honeymoon with my future dream husband. That’s a hot and spicy trip just for me and my Jason Momoa lookalike.

How has becoming a mother changed you?

Motherhood broke me in all the best ways. This journey has cracked my pride, shattered my timelines, and wrecked my illusion of control. But it’s also rebuilt me - with a softer heart, a sharper sense of humor, and a black belt in getting sh*t done on zero sleep with a toddler on my hip. I’m excited to discover what twists and turns come next on this rollercoaster ride.